A sad day in the world of entertainment. Leonard Nimoy, the man we’ve all known and loved as Mr. Spock from Star Trek, has passed away. The actor/director/writer/all-around artist was suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (known as COPD for short) as early as last February. It is believed that he passed due to complications from the disease early today. He was 83.
While Nimoy was mostly known for his live-action work — such as his work on the Star Trek franchise, the Mission: Impossible TV series, and the mystery show In Search of… to more modern performances on Fringe and the music video for Bruno Mars’ The Lazy Song (alternate official video) — he was also known for his voice work. Back in 1986, he voiced Galvatron in The Transformers: The Movie — which, if you’re not old enough to remember, was a movie for the animated Transformers show that was on during the 80s.
In addition, he did voice work for video games. Obviously, he did the voice of Mr. Spock for Star Trek Online in 2010. But he was also the narrator in the excellent turn-based strategy game Sid Meier’s Civilization IV. And, for games that are close to our site’s heart, Nimoy voiced the role of Master Xehanort in Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep and Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance.
Our sincerest condolences for the family and friends of Leonard Nimoy. To them, as well as those who were fans of his, we say this: “Live long and prosper.”
Reactions to Nimoy’s passing from some of his Star Trek castmates:
“Today, the world lost a great man, and I lost a great friend. We return you now to the stars, Leonard. You taught us to “Live Long And Prosper,” and you indeed did, friend. I shall miss you in so many, many ways.” — George Takei
“I am deeply saddened by the death of my dear friend Leonard Nimoy. But, I also want to celebrate his extraordinary life. He was a true force of strength and his character was that of a champion. Leonard’s integrity and passion as an actor and devotion to his craft helped transport STAR TREK into television history. His vision and heart are bigger than the universe. I will miss him very much and send heartfelt wishes to his family.” — Nichelle Nichols
“I loved him like a brother. We will all miss his humor, his talent, and his capacity to love.” — William Shatner
